Nonsuicidal Self-Injury and Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

Abstract

Abstract This chapter discusses both nonsuicidal self-injury and suicidal thoughts and behavior because of their interrelationship and their high occurrence rates in adolescents. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15- to 29-year-olds globally. Depression and other comorbid conditions are often present, and risk factors have been identified, such as low socioeconomic status, early adversity and trauma, bullying, and family conflict, as well as a sense of hopelessness. A structured safety planning intervention can be undertaken for cases that do not require hospitalization. Social workers are also urged to discuss firearm safety with parents. Dialectical behavior therapy for adolescents (DBT-A) has been developed to treat adolescents and their families who deal with serious dysregulation, but a stepped-care approach needs more research, and less intensive programs are available for those who do not require or cannot access DBT-A.